A great tip I use for frugality healthy meals is....
1. When buying produce, try to buy items that can be frozen later on. For instance. I will buy a bulk bag of apples. Usually if I shop around I can find a 5lb bag for about 3 dollars. I use one quarter of the bag to set on table for healthy snacks for my kids. The remaining apples I split up and make homemade applesauce, apple chips right in the oven, or just peel, cook and freeze. I place them in small freezer bags..with the exception of the apple chips.
2. Buying in bulk is usually better then if you buy smaller. I try to look for products based on the season and their ability to be frozen. I don't know much about canning so freezing is the best for me. I also ask friends and family to split the cost with me. I recently bought a 50lb bag of potatoes. They cost about 10$ and I split the cost with my sister.
Another great tip is when cooking any meal, use individual freezer bags to place one meal in. I then throw them in hubby's lunch pail, frozen, and all he has to do is micro for a few minutes. I look recipes for healthy living up on the net and make sure that they will go far, as well as are freezable.
As far as fresh produce, this time of year it can be more expensive, so I try to buy discounted items...make home made fruit role ups, fruit chips, etc. Cut fresh veggies and put in freezer bags for easy additions to meals, and are sure as to what is put in them.
3. Ask friends and family to split the cost of more expensive items. I know it seems like you are paying more for the larger purchase, but it will definitely last longer and if someone is splitting the cost with you you will be saving more.
4. I have found a whole sale bread place in my area. They usually don't advertise but buying breads there are usually cheaper then buying them at Aldis. Buy the whole grain breads and freeze.
HOpe this helps...i know it has saved me a bundle on my grocery bill and also keeps my family of five on the healthy road.
To keep apple slices from turning brown, add a bit of water and a small amount of lemon juice to the container. It won't alter the taste and will keep them spot free.
I like your ideas for apples - Can you explain how to make apple chips in the oven? When you said you freeze the apples after peeling and cooking, do you mean slicing them first? And how would you cook them? I need to do something to get my kids to eat healthier snacks but they're so fussy although they do like apples. Unfortunately, in our house they go bad fast. My older daughter will only eat sliced apples (it's hard right now because she has braces) and when she cuts them and takes them to school they go bad - as soon as she sees any brown spots she'll just throw them away! Any hints on how to keep them fresh till lunchtime? Denise
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